What materials should I use to seal gaps?

Steel wool, caulk, or copper mesh for any hole larger than a mouse or rat.

What are effective baits for traps?

Sticky items like peanut butter, chocolate, or a small cotton ball.

No, never place it inside walls or living areas, as the resulting odor from a dead rodent can be severe.

Keep brightest lights away from doors/main sitting areas; lure insects to a corner of your yard/balcony.

Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime (about 0.25 inch).

Seal All Gaps: Use steel wool, caulk, or copper mesh to seal any hole larger than a mouse or a rat in the foundation, walls, and roofline.
Check Utility Entry: Pay close attention to gaps around pipes, vents, and utility lines entering the house; these are prime entry points.
Use Door Sweeps: Install tight-fitting weather stripping and door sweeps on all exterior doors, especially the garage and basement.
Screen Vents: Place sturdy metal screens (hardware cloth) over attic and foundation vents to block access.

Airtight Food Storage: Store all human and pet food (including bird seed) in thick plastic or metal containers with secure lids.
Clean Up Crumb-Free: Wipe counters, sweep floors, and wash dishes immediately. Do not leave dirty dishes or pet food out overnight.
Fix Leaks: Repair leaky faucets and pipes. Rodents need a reliable water source, so eliminate standing water.

Clear Clutter: Remove debris, woodpiles, and overgrown vegetation near the foundation, as these provide safe nesting sites.

Set Snap Traps: Use traditional snap traps or electronic traps. Place them perpendicular to walls in high-traffic areas (behind appliances, inside cabinets).
Use Sticky Bait: Bait traps with sticky items like peanut butter, chocolate, or a small cotton ball (mice use these for nesting).
Avoid Indoor Poison: Never place rodenticide (poison bait) inside walls or living areas, as the resulting odor from a dead rodent can be severe.
Call a Pro for Infestations: If activity is constant or heard in the walls, call a professional who can use non-repellent treatments and secure outdoor bait stations safely.